'Water Board' thief conned elderly Blackburn woman in scam

A CALLOUS thief pretending to be from the Water Board conned an elderly woman out of more than a hundred pounds.

The man, who was described as being in his 30s, told the 72-year-old woman, of Cicely Court, Blackburn, that she was in arrears with her bill and that he needed to come inside to check the water meter.

Once inside, he told her that if she gave him some money he would not turn off the water.

She gave him just over £100 and he left the house.

A police investigation into the scam has since been launched.

The man is described as white, very tall and of slim build.

He was said to have had very dark, almost black hair, which was combed back and stubble on his face. He was wearing a high-vis waist coat and had two earrings in his right ear.

PC Stuart Smith appealed for anyone who saw the man in the area to come forward.

He said he was also keen to speak to anyone else who may have had a visit from anyone matching this description at their home.

PC Smith said: “This man is a callous thief who has deliberately preyed on an elderly lady and we are doing all we can to find him.

“If anyone has any information at all that they think could help then I would urge them to contact police as soon as possible.”

Residents are advised to be extra vigilant and to check ID before allowing a caller into their home. If in doubt, it is recommended they call the police.

Anyone with information about the incident, which happened around 10.45am on February 13, should call 101 quoting log number LC-20140213-1339 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Lessons need to be learned never open door to strangers especially when you elderly.These are crimes been happening for over many decades. Thieves prey on most vulnerable people in our society like the elderly and disables.

Lessons need to be learned never open door to strangers especially when you elderly.These are crimes been happening for over many decades. Thieves prey on most vulnerable people in our society like the elderly and disables.modan